Harv, Good response!

First let me state that it is not my contention that perfection "stems from mathematics" but that mathematics stems from the idea of perfection.

"Perfection" being a mathematical definition as opposed to the reality; i.e., how accurately the object we mathematically wish to describe is captured. For example: r=(y^2+x^2)^.5 is a mathematical definition for a perfect circle.

Does the "perfect" circle truly exist in nature? No. Only to the nth degree does our equation conform to an object we find in nature.

As you mention in your response,

"given a sufficiently complex enough algorithm, one should be able to derive a fractal that looks 'real-life,'"

Yes, mathematics can only approximate (or "look" like) life.

The point I am trying to make (as I am sure you are wondering about right now) is this, that "perfection" (mathematically defined) is a human invention, nowhere found in nature, and superseeded mathematics. Therefore, mathematics is based on a human invention, and is therefore too a human invention.

• Nice argument - yanniru - August 1, 2003 - 12:29 UTC
• One question - harvey1 - August 2, 2003 - 03:28 UTC
  • Wigner. . .out of my league, really. - jracko - August 5, 2003 - 19:21 UTC